---
Jessica woke to the faint sound of birds chirping outside, their soft melodies filtering through the thick curtains. The pale morning light illuminated the room, casting long shadows that danced along the walls. Alvaro stirred in his sleep, his tiny fingers clutching the edge of her nightgown. She smoothed his hair gently, her mind already racing.
Last night, she’d barely slept. Instead, she’d lain awake, watching the moonlight creep across the ceiling, turning over every detail of her plan. But as morning arrived, so did the gnawing weight of reality.
Would she have the strength to go through with it? Could she outmaneuver a man like Armando?
---
Downstairs, Armando was already deep into his morning routine. The kitchen buzzed with quiet activity as Anna prepared breakfast.
